Controversy Trails ADC’s Request For Supreme Court Judgment Ahead Of 2027 Elections

By Folarin Adeyemi Aluko

Fresh controversy has erupted within Nigeria’s legal and political circles following a request by the David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress asking the Supreme Court of Nigeria to deliver judgment in a pending appeal within three days.

The request, addressed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has sharply divided senior lawyers and constitutional experts, with some describing it as a legitimate plea based on urgency while others insist it amounts to an improper attempt to pressure the court.

The ADC, through its counsel, S. E. Aruwa (SAN) & Co., warned that any delay in the judgment could jeopardise the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections. The party argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission had already de-recognised its leadership following a lower court ruling, leaving the party without a formally recognised structure despite remaining a registered political party.

According to the letter signed by senior lawyer Ejoharuwa Shaibu (SAN), the party fears it may miss critical electoral deadlines outlined in INEC’s timetable if the apex court fails to deliver judgment quickly.

The development has sparked intense reactions from legal practitioners across the country.

Renowned constitutional lawyer Itse Sagay defended the request, describing it as a simple appeal rather than an attempt to dictate to the court.

“There is nothing wrong with making a request in a matter of urgency. The court is free to consider it or ignore it,” Sagay said.

Another senior advocate, Tochukwu Onyiuke, also backed the ADC, arguing that the matter carries serious democratic implications.

He stated that timely judgment was necessary to avoid disenfranchising millions of Nigerians who may wish to support the party during the 2027 elections.

However, several other senior lawyers strongly criticised the move.

Senior Advocate Wahab Shittu described the request as unlawful, insisting that the Constitution already provides timelines for the delivery of judgments and that no lawyer has the authority to seek exceptions outside established legal procedures.

Similarly, legal practitioner George Oguntade described the letter as disrespectful and inappropriate, warning that such communication could be interpreted as an attempt to influence judicial discretion.

According to him, if urgency truly existed, the proper legal step would have been to file a formal application supported by an affidavit rather than sending what critics now describe as an ultimatum-like letter.

Legal scholar Ernest Ojukwu also questioned the procedure adopted by the ADC, noting that issues involving judicial timelines are usually handled through formal court processes and consultations with court registrars.

The dispute comes amid growing political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties increasingly expressing concerns over the political environment and the role of institutions.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar weighed in on the controversy, warning that Nigeria’s democracy could be endangered if opposition parties are prevented from fully participating in the electoral process.

In a statement shared on social media, Atiku said he still believed the judiciary would remain independent and resist political pressure.

“It is increasingly evident that Nigeria’s democracy and the integrity of the 2027 elections are under serious threat,” he stated, while urging the courts to uphold fairness and constitutional order.

The case has now become one of the most closely watched political and legal battles ahead of the next general elections, as Nigerians await the Supreme Court’s next move and the potential implications for the country’s democratic process.